Pakistan National Cricket Team have named a 14-man squad for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with three maiden call-ups giving the selection a clear sense of renewal. Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Taha and Mohammad Suleman have all been included after impressing in the Pakistan first-class season.
The series comes at a useful moment for Pakistan in the ICC World Test Championship 2025/27, with the side sitting at the bottom spot in the standings while Sri Lanka are seventh. That alone gives the next two Tests a broader importance, because this is not just about selection for one series, but about how Pakistan begin to shape their route through the competition.
Pakistan turn to fresh batting options
The most striking feature of the squad is the willingness to give three young batters a chance at the same time. Sameer Minhas, Mohammad Taha and Mohammad Suleman have earned their first Test call-ups after standing out in domestic cricket, and that makes this a notable moment for Pakistan's batting pool.
There is always a balance to strike in home Test cricket. Experience matters, but so does the need to find players who can grow into the demands of the format. This squad suggests Pakistan are prepared to look beyond the established names and test whether their domestic form can translate at international level.
With Babar Azam captaining the 14-member side, Pakistan still have a familiar core around which to build. But the inclusion of three newcomers indicates a broader search for answers, particularly in batting depth.
Two Tests, two key venues
The first Test is scheduled for 9-13 November at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium in Rawalpindi, before the second Test follows from 17-21 November at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Before the Test series begins, Pakistan selectors will add two pacers from the Pakistan Patron's side to the senior Test squad.
Before the Tests, the PCB Patron's XI are due to feature in a practice game against Sri Lanka, which should offer one last look at conditions and combinations. That sequence means the squad is still not completely finalised, but the main picture is already clear: Pakistan are backing a 14-man group with three fresh faces, while leaving room to strengthen the pace attack before the opening match.
For Pakistan, the next step is straightforward. They must decide whether this blend of youth and experience can set the tone in Rawalpindi and Lahore. The selection has already signalled intent; now the cricket has to match it.
